Well, we’ve been saying it for some time now, but it is now mathematically official – the Red Sox are out of it. Here’s Theo Epstein’s statement on their elimination. Nothing to do but root for the Rays against the Yankees now. And, of course, begin obsessing about the offseason. Sox Therapy is looking ahead too. Don’t cry over spilled milk, like this post does.

Notes on 2010

Go out and show some love for Mike Lowell on October 2, which has been dubbed, “Thanks, Mike” Night. He’s been a class character and I have the utmost respect for the man. And for God’s sake, someone get him his final home run ball.

There were some rumblings that the Red Sox seemed to fare poorly against poor teams, while they played well against tough opponents. This study at Dugout Central shows them as middle-of-the-pack in this regard.

David Ortiz downplays his 100 RBI season. Good for him. 100 is just a number, as is 20 wins. Lester still matches up against anyone else just fine.

Michael Silverman says that the Red Sox “lust” after Mark Teixeira, who was seen on the sideline at the Georgia Tech game with Jason Varitek this past weekend. He is definitely the prototypical player they love.

Junichi Tazawa may become an unrestricted free agent in about a week’s time, but will the Red Sox risk offending Japan baseball to get this one player?

Coco Crisp was almost traded to the Cincinnati Reds, according to Walt Jocketty. Certainly a better choice than Corey Patterson, last year’s Opening Day starter in centerfield.

Got turned on to these team defense rankings through Beyond the Box Score. Normally I let these kinds of things go, but this one is pretty egregious. Thanks for the nice try, Justin Inaz, but your defense rankings are totally whack. Is there anyone who truly believes that the White Sox have a better defense than we do? Nick Swisher over Jacoby Ellsbury and Coco Crisp? Paul Konerko over Kevin Youkilis? Seriously? Have you seen these guys play?

Just how good has Jon Lester been for the Red Sox this year? Peter Bendix over at Beyond the Box Score has a nice analysis article. I think the title is a little bit exaggerated at this point, but Lester has been darn good. That Johan Santana non-trade just keeps looking better and better, don’t you think?